While your kids may be sad that summer vacation has come to an end, your dog may be even sadder. All summer long he had a companion around the house to give him attention and love. Now that the kids are back at school, your dog may start to experience his own back to school blues. While some dogs will eventually adjust to the disappearance of their companions, millions of others may experience forms of depression or separation anxiety resulting in unusual behavior such as loss of appetite, destructive behavior, excessive barking and whining, or scratching and clawing at doors. Don’t let your dog suffer from the back to school blues. Here are 6 tips to help ease your dog’s loneliness and anxiety.
1. Exercise in the morning
[highlight align=”left, right, center” style=”default, different”]Mornings can be chaotic. You’ve got lunches to make, kids to shuffle to the bus stop, and a big presentation at work to prepare for. It can be easy to forget about your dog in all the hustle and bustle. It’s important, however, to make sure your dog gets some exercise in the morning. Try bringing your dog along when you walk your kids to the bus stop or let your kids run around with the dog in the backyard before they head to school. If your dog gets some energy out in the morning he his less likely to be destructive when everyone is gone.[/highlight]2. Don’t be sad about leaving
[highlight align=”left, right, center” style=”default, different”]When you are ready to leave for the day, don’t make it a dramatic, emotional experience. Dogs can sense your emotions. If you are upset, your dog will probably be upset too. Instead, try to attach positive feelings to your departure by giving your dog a toy or treat.[/highlight]3. Put on some tunes
[highlight align=”left, right, center” style=”default, different”]Dogs feel most anxious and lonely once everyone leaves the house. Next time you leave try putting some music on. Research shows that music can help calm dogs and make them feel more comfortable in a new environment like a quiet, empty house. What type of music do dogs like? Well every dog is different, but tests show most prefer classical.[/highlight]4. Resist the urge
[highlight align=”left, right, center” style=”default, different”]You’ve finally come home from a long day and can’t wait to see your dog. It can be tempting to shower him with love and baby talk and let him jump all over you. Try your best to resist this urge. Otherwise, your dog will feel as though you have been gone forever! Instead, greet your dog calmly and let him outside to run around and use the bathroom.[/highlight]5. Evening exercise
[highlight align=”left, right, center” style=”default, different”]Between making dinner, soccer practices, and homework, the evening can be even crazier than the morning. It’s still important, though, to exercise your dog. He’s been holding in his energy all day. Now he wants to let it lose! Take him for a walk or throw the ball around in the back yard. And don’t be afraid to recruit help from the whole family. Make a schedule and assign morning and evening walking duties for each day.[/highlight]6. Doggie Daycare
[highlight align=”left, right, center” style=”default, different”]If your dog continues to feel anxious or you just don’t like to leave him at home alone all day, doggie day care may be a great option. At day care your dog will have friends to play with, space to run, and receive all of the love and attention he deserves. [/highlight]Don’t let your pup suffer from the back to school blues. To learn more about our doggie day care services in San Antonio and Schertz, click the button below.
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